Immunopathogenesis of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma in skin of color patients part 1: Mycosis fungoides

Abstract

Mycosis fungoides (MF) is the most common subtype of Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (CTCL). Patients with Skin of Color (SOC) may be disproportionately impacted by MF due to delayed diagnoses, limited research, and treatment differences. In this graphical review, we provide an overview of MF immunopathogenesis and demonstrate how it manifests differently in SOC patients. We also provide our hypothesis for why the disease process can result in a myriad of clinical presentations in SOC patients. Last, we provide a summary of current treatment options, highlighting ongoing clinical trials and opportunities to include SOC patients to promote health equity.

Keywords

• Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
• Mycosis fungoides
• Immunopathogenesis
• Skin of color (SOC)
• Health care disparities
• Oncodermatology